6 Reasons Why Getting a Mortgage Is So Hard

For many renters and first-time buyers, getting a mortgage can feel like trying to crack a safe with a croissant. You stay hopeful, get your documents together, maybe even dress smart for the appointment - only to be met with confusing criteria, mysterious delays, and raised eyebrows over your spending habits.

But why is getting a mortgage so hard?

Here are six major reasons why mortgage applications get tricky - and how you can take control of the process.

 

1. You basically need to be perfect - on paper

To get a mortgage approved, lenders look for a clean, consistent financial profile: a stable income, regular employment, a solid credit score, and no missed payments. But real life isn’t always that neat. If you're self-employed, freelancing, or have moved around a lot, your profile might raise a few flags - even if you’re financially responsible.

Klink helps you become mortgage-ready by analysing your bank transactions and identifying potential issues before lenders do.

 

2. You need a lot of money upfront

Saving for a deposit is no small feat, especially with rising rents and the cost of meal deals creeping up to gourmet status. Even with a 5% deposit, you’ll still need legal fees, surveys and moving costs on top and then maybe a new kettle if yours gives up under the stress.

Klink’s Home Goal tool helps you create a realistic savings plan and track your progress towards your deposit, whether your goal is £5k or £50k.

 

3. Your bank account is under the microscope

You know those three Deliveroo orders in one day? Lenders might notice. Mortgage underwriters go through your recent spending with the same intensity as a true crime podcast host. Payday loans, overdraft usage, and yes, even your love of online fashion hauls it’s all up for inspection.

Klink gives you spending insights using open banking so you can understand how lenders might view your habits - and make adjustments in advance.

 

4. Mortgage Rules and Rates Change Constantly

One minute the Bank of England’s raising rates, the next there’s a new government scheme, or a lender decides to pull a popular mortgage product overnight. If you’re feeling like you need a financial translator just to keep up, you’re not alone.

Klink’s educational content breaks down mortgage terms, explains industry changes and keeps you in the know minus the jargon.

 

5. You’re Expected to Know Everything - But No One Teaches You

There’s no “Mortgage 101” at school. No landlord explains how your rent history could (or couldn’t) help. And while your mate Dave bought a house last year, he now speaks exclusively in acronyms like LTV, DIP, and EPC. Brilliant.

Klink’s bite-sized guides and quizzes teach you everything you need to know - without lectures, spreadsheets or stress.

 

6. The Mortgage Process Is Slow and Frustrating

Even after securing a deposit and mortgage in principle, the rest of the process can feel painfully slow. Underwriters go quiet, solicitors take ages, and your “completion day” gets pushed back. It’s no wonder so many buyers feel overwhelmed.

Being mortgage-ready with Klink can speed things up. When your finances are clean, your docs are in order, and your expectations are clear, things move faster - or at least feel less mysterious.

 

Getting a Mortgage Doesn't Have to Be This Hard

While the mortgage process can be confusing, time-consuming, and frustrating, it’s not impossible, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Download the Klink app today to:

• Set your home buying goals

• Create a smart savings plan

• Pre-qualify for a mortgage

• Improve your financial profile

• Understand what lenders are looking for

Take the guesswork out of home buying. With Klink, you’ll feel confident, prepared, and one step closer to getting the keys to your first home.